Adventures in Boating Washington Handbook is the official boating handbook developed for Washington State Parks. The handbook introduces you to Washington laws governing boating and provides general information about safe vessel operation on the extensive coastline, reservoirs, lakes, and glacier-fed rivers that make Washington state a boater’s paradise.
With over 450 water recreation sites available and many locations ideal for shellfish and seaweed harvesting, kayaking, and windsurfing, Washington is a great state for your boating adventures.
Use this handbook to familiarize yourself with steps to make all your boating outings safe and enjoyable. Remember, safety on Washington waterways is the responsibility of all boaters.
Topics include:
Boater Education
You may have heard that you need a boating license to operate your boat, but what you really need is a boaters safety course. Whether or not your state requires education, it can reduce boating accidents and injuries on the water. Boaters can keep themselves and their passengers safe by learning about responsible boat operation, etiquette, and the rules of the waterways.
After January 1, 2014, all boaters who are of legal age to operate a motorboat or PWC on Washington waters are required, unless exempt, to have proof of having completed a Washington-approved boat education course.